More than 600 Students Attend Bank of America Tech Week Event

More than 600 Grand Rapids area middle school students participated in the Student Tech Showcase hosted at the Kent Career Technical Center as part of Grand Rapids Tech Week on Sept. 17.

One highlight of the day for the students from area school districts was an interactive virtual reality (VR) experience brought to life by The Academy at Bank of America, an award-winning education and professional development organization within the company. The Academy equips bank employees with virtual environments that simulate real-world scenarios, providing hands-on learning, bridging skills gaps, and preparing them for career success.

Students from Godwin Heights Public Schools, Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy, Holton Public Schools, Kent City Community Schools, Muskegon Heights Public School Academy, and Muskegon Public Schools had the opportunity to explore this cutting-edge VR technology firsthand. The immersive experience allowed students to gain insights into how VR is revolutionizing industries and careers, offering a glimpse of the future of technology and innovation.

Renee Tabben, President of Bank of America Grand Rapids, emphasized the importance of bringing such advanced technologies to diverse people and communities.

“Bank of America’s innovative VR technology featured at Grand Rapids Tech Week gives students a unique opportunity to engage with tools that are revolutionizing how companies train and develop their teams,” Tabben said. “By showcasing how VR and advanced technologies are transforming today’s high-tech workplace, this experience inspires the next generation of tech talent and equips them with essential skills for a digital-first economy. Reaching students from underserved communities is particularly important, as it expands their understanding of the vast career opportunities available in tech and beyond.”

The Student Tech Showcase, part of a broader series of Grand Rapids Tech Week events, included interactive exhibits, panel discussions, pitch competitions, and networking opportunities that highlighted the region’s vibrant tech community.

Through initiatives like this, The Academy at Bank of America is playing a key role in empowering students to understand and embrace the technology shaping their world.

By the end of the event, students left with a deeper understanding of the innovations transforming industries and the career possibilities that lie ahead.